Problem of Hair Loss - An Issue of Concern

Hair loss, also known as ‘alopecia’ is a major concern in today’s date as more and more people are suffering through it, especially adults nearing their thirties. Alopecia is a Greek name for hair loss from body or head. More or less it refers to baldness which is a perplexing consternation for people going through this phase. Compulsive pulling of hair, tight braids and ponytails can lead to hair loss; hair relaxers, hair ironing and medical conditions like iron deficiency are also factors which lead to this problem. Thousands of humans have this problem where patches signify alopecia areata. It refers to sudden hair loss causing patches to appear on the scalp or on other areas of the body. If it’s not treated it may result into complete baldness which is known as alopecia totalis. Alopecia universalis refers to complete hair loss from the body. In a recent survey it has been found that despite the recent economic depression many people have sought hair treatment. More than 800,000 patients have been treated. The percentage wasn’t this high in 2006 when it was 26% while the total percentage jumped high by 12%. Hair is a source of pride for every human; not only the old aged but younger generations also place a very high value for hair.

The survey was conducted by International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), one of the world’s leading medical authority in hair loss and restoration. After conducting several surgeries it has been observed that patients after their surgery are quite happy with the results and they find it truly as a boon for them. It’s because it helps them in getting personal and professional advantages. On similar lines the number of patients have risen (for both sexes) by 5 to 6 % annually. One of the surprising facts which came to the forefront was that youngsters especially males were found to be present for such surgeries rather than women. Similarly, this report tells quite a lot about how grave the situation has become currently, the number isn’t decreasing at any cost until some serious measures are adopted as soon as possible.

During the examination of the scalp and body any kind of abnormalities should be considered, characteristics of skin lesions, scarring and distributive hair loss are a few symptoms which can lead to conclusive results. There are numerous causes for alopecia which is an impediment to the growth of many individuals. Alopecia mucinosa, androgenic alopecia, diabetes, dissecting cellulitis, fungal infections, chemical hair treatments, hereditary disorders, hormonal changes and hyperthyroidism are some of the common causes of hair loss. Hypervitaminosis A, malnutrition or iron deficiency, lupus erythematosus, Pseudopelade of Brocq, radiation therapy, scalp infection, secondary syphilis, tufted folliculitis, telogen effluvium, traction alopecia and trichotillomania are also some of the important causes of this problem.

Treatment and cure for hair loss is a long and time consuming one as it takes time to regenerate. Lifestyle changes, alternative medicine and drugs are the options available to patients. Change in lifestyle is the least risky option which should be done at all costs to avoid further problems. Healthy eating habits, regular exercise and sleep is an absolute must to have a sound and healthy body. The most important part is to have a healthy and nutritious diet rather than having junk food regularly which increases the carbohydrates and results in obesity which can lead to serious health ailments too. Medicine and surgery depend on the situation and the state of the problem. Surgery is done by a team of doctors if required and medicines are prescribed accordingly. Therefore it is vital to keep up a healthy mind and body to avoid any further suffering.